A Generous People birth from a resolve to live unto God through a life of self-denial for the good of others.

As was the case for the ancient widow, Anna, worshipful gratitude and evangelism mark the lives of those who

Forever changed will be the lives of those who encounter Jesus for who He is. That's the story of these shepherds and it's been the story of so many ever since that night in the field.

God looks low and extends mercy to those who, in self-denial, humble themselves in order to Prepare Him Room. As he does, he gives them a new song for the world to hear.

From the halls of eternity past, through to eternity future, God had shown himself to be a promise making God. His answer is and has always been the given child, Jesus

Not only were the Jews fighting off an outside attack from the enemy, they were dealing with an even uglier enemy from within: sin. With the opening of chapter 5, Nehemiah is facing a new challenge and is left to himself to figure it out. Of course, the good hand of God would remain upon him, which ultimately led to brokenness being restored, as God's glory was again on full display through the preservation of his people.

God heard the cry of Nehemiah and thus stirred the Jews to heed their leader's charge to "remember the Lord!" With a tool in one hand and a weapon in the other, the construction continues on with their new-found resolve. Supporting the entire project was the reality that God would be the one to fight for them.

Throughout the book of Nehemiah, fierce opposition takes front and center. Nehemiah's response to his foes speaks not to his own strength, but the faithfulness of his God. In the face of opposition, when God's people respond in prayerful persistence instead of force, God is rightly displayed and honored. May the church respond similarly today.

Chapter 3 is an entire list of seemingly unimportant names. Why would God make space for such a list when there's so much for us to know and learn? God keeps records, that's why. A sparrow won't fall and a brick won't be laid without the God of Heaven taking note. Throughout the list, we notice various vocations, ages and groups being utilized for the purposes of God and His people. The same is true today. The people of God

Nehemiah willingly leaves the riches of Babylon to enter into the plight of his fellow Jews. Why? Becuase the glory of God trumped his own personal pursuits. Despite meeting opposition head on, this faithful Jew stands firm and pursues the work God had called him to, never doubting the good hand of God that rested upon him.